Spring is a time of renewal, and time to dust off those hiking boots, climb off the couch, and immerse yourself back into Oregon’s stunning outdoor spaces. You have plenty of options when it comes to outdoor recreation here, but there’s one spot in the Columbia River Gorge that’s just full of wildflowers during April and May, and you won’t want to miss them. Take a look at the Tom McCall Preserve at Rowena:
The Tom McCall Preserve is situated on a plateau overlooking the Columbia River Gorge, and it’s simply spectacular in the spring. The 231-acre preserve is filled with colorful wildflowers starting as early as late February, and going all the way through June.
Aarica Arora/Google
April and May are the best times to visit if you’re on the lookout for spring blooms. More than 200 species of plants populate this preserve, and many are in full splendor this time of year.
Kim Griffith/Alltrails
You’ll find purple lupine, Indian paintbrush, grass widow, smooth prairie star, and more. Bring your camera to capture all the scenic splendor of this magical place.
Marianne H/Tripadvisor
There are two trails to explore here. The Tom McCall Point Trail is a bit more strenuous than the Rowena Plateau Trail, but it’s well worth your effort. The trail is considered moderate, with an elevation change of 1,292 feet.
Kim Griffith/Alltrails
Vibrant balsam root lines the path for much of this 4.5-mile trail. These cheerful, yellow flowers add a happy splash of color.
Scott Hege/Google
You’ll also enjoy scenic vistas that include Mt. Hood in the distance…
Diana Robinson/flickr
…and the view of the Columbia River Gorge is absolutely stunning.
Dawn Bull/Alltrails
Please make sure to leave these pretty wildflowers where they are, so that those visiting later can also enjoy them.
Scott Hege/Google
Stay on the trails, and leave your dog home for this one - they’re not allowed here, but can explore with you at the nearby lower Mayer State Park.
Chris Goexplore/Alltrails
The preserve is managed by The Nature Conservancy, and was named after Oregon’s late Governor Thomas Lawson McCall, who was dedicated to the preservation of Oregon’s natural beauty. We can’t think of a more fitting tribute than this special spot.
Kevin Deoso/Google
You’ll find the Tom McCall Preserve along the Old Columbia River Scenic Highway, in Rowena.
Google Click here for the map and directions.
Have you visited the Tom McCall Preserve this spring? We’d love to see your wildflower photos in the comments!
Aarica Arora/Google
Kim Griffith/Alltrails
Marianne H/Tripadvisor
Scott Hege/Google
Diana Robinson/flickr
Dawn Bull/Alltrails
Chris Goexplore/Alltrails
Kevin Deoso/Google
Click here for the map and directions.
If you’re looking for more great places to explore this spring, check out our list of nine places you absolutely must visit.
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